The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant Clarence R. Plitt (ASN: 35007672), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 18 February 1945. When his platoon leader was seriously wounded in an attack against a strong enemy position, Technical Sergeant Plitt assisted in his evacuation, and then took command of the platoon. He courageously tried to advance, but hostile fire became so intense that an order came to withdraw. Technical Sergeant Plitt crawled through the debris covering the area and personally informed every man of the situation and the order of withdrawal, disregarding the heavy fire that came from the enemy positions. Through his leadership and direction, all of the wounded were evacuated first, and then he successfully maneuvered his unit from the fire-swept area to a position that offered definite tactical advantages. In accordance with Technical Sergeant Plitt’s direction, machine gun and mortar fire was subsequently brought to bear upon the enemy. This, together with the information regarding enemy positions gained by Technical Sergeant Plitt during the attack, enabled our forces to advance a short time later and successfully reduce the enemy strong points. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Technical Sergeant Plitt, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.